Competing in the 2024 compact crossover market with a seating capacity for five, the Hyundai Tucson faces tough competition from notable contenders like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Nissan Rogue.
DESIGN
With its eye-catching exterior, the Tucson impresses, yet the cabin’s lackluster quality disappoints. Clever design features, like concealed exhaust tips in the detailed rear bumper and the integration of LED daytime running lights into the grille, enhance the overall appeal of the crisp shape.
Within Tucson’s cabin, a subdued ambiance is apparent, adorned with mid-grade materials and metallic accents. The sleek gloss-black center console, prone to fingerprints, adds sophistication, especially in our Limited model with capacitive-touch inputs replacing specific physical controls on the 10.3-inch touchscreen.
PERFORMANCE
Powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine generating 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, the Tucson employs an 8-speed automatic transmission to drive either the front or all four wheels. Yet, its hesitant acceleration and modest overtaking capability render it less appealing than hybrid alternatives.
With smooth highway performance and pleasant handling, the Tucson encounters challenges in urban environments, where its suspension struggles to regain composure on uneven surfaces, causing a jittery sensation over rough pavement.
VERDICT
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD we test-drove at Carfanaticsblog has an MSRP of $38,010 with a total price of $40,005.
Competition
Crafted to disrupt the traditional comfort associated with compact crossovers, Hyundai’s Tucson competes head-to-head with Toyota’s RAV4, encompassing both its hybrid and plug-in hybrid iterations.
In tandem with the RAV4 Hybrid, the Toyota Venza, though more expensive, proves to be a capable alternative. Ford’s Escape, offered in a plug-in variant, distinguishes itself with a gentler exterior and a less captivating interior.
With its formerly avant-garde aesthetics now subdued, Acura’s RDX should approach the Tucson warily, especially considering the Nissan Rogue’s prowess in agile maneuvering and expansive interior design.
